Combating the Warrior Within
The weight of addiction had stripped me of everything—my energy, my confidence, my sense of self. I knew I had a problem when the only thing I could do was curl up in a ball, sobbing, and say “I'm so fucking tired and I need help!" In pure desperation, I turned to Google, Miracles Asia came across my screen.
The website looked too good to be true. Luxurious rooms, serene pools, gourmet meals, and, most importantly, one-on-one inpatient treatment to take me out of my daily sufferings. It seemed like a dream, but something deep inside told me, a Higher Power said “take the plunge, I got you.” I miraculously pulled together just enough for the plane ticket. Since I have a service connection the Foreign Medical Program pays for up to 90 days of treatment.
The Journey
I embarked on my sobriety journey from Florida to Phuket, Thailand. If you know Phuket, you will scratch your head at this, considering it’s a beach party island where marijuana, coffee, beaches and shopping are the best ways to spend your time. I took my last drag from my vape and threw it away at o’dark thirty in the Tampa International airport. The trip was the hardest journey due to withdrawing from the toxins in my body on a 28-hour flight. With the little coping skills I had, I managed to maintain my sanity from all the triggers and anxiety. I didn’t realize travelling, airports, and vacations are an addict’s playground and the most common relapse environment. It was the first time I have been sober in over seven years.
I was picked up by Mark Heather, the Founder & Managing Director, who told me we have a VIP fast track through immigration and a private driver to whistle me away. When you arrive, there is a solid bamboo gate surrounding the premises for security. Walking through the doors, I immediately felt something I hadn’t felt in a long time: peace. This wasn’t just another rehab facility; it was a sanctuary tailored to real healing. The atmosphere was intimate, ensuring I received the attention I needed. The staff, many of whom are recovering themselves, understood my struggles on a personal level. Every staff member called me by name, even the executive chef.
A Safe Haven for Healing
From the moment I reached out, I was welcomed with compassion. Ryan, my first point of contact at Miracles Asia, guided me through the entire admission process with patience and understanding. As a woman veteran, I had spent years fighting battles both external and internal but asking for help was the hardest fight of all. Miracles Asia did not just offer me treatment; they offered me connection and hope.
Comprehensive Care at Miracles Asia
The program provides a full spectrum of care designed for long-term recovery. Their detox and rehabilitation program ensures safe withdrawal management under medical supervision, making the first step towards sobriety as comfortable as possible.
When I arrived, Peter unpacked and searched my things in the gentlest way possible. I settled into what felt like a 5 star hotel, not a detox or rehab center. After a couple days of acclimating, I was escorted to an ultra-modern healthcare facility Phuket Hospital that Miracles Asia partners with to get a full medical examination. All my service-connected issues are addressed. I have seen specialty doctors including the dentist and gynecologist. In one day, I had my yearly woman exam, ultrasounds, x-rays, the results, and treatment plan moving forward. If my illnesses fell under my service connection, I was treated for it. The care and sensitivity of the hospital staff was superior to any hospital in the United States let alone a VA hospital.
In addition to having a full medical examination, I met with the psychiatrist to discuss detoxing and what approach was best for me. There is a Registered Nurse and support staff on location 24/7. Having a trusting, compassionate, understanding, and benevolent staff here always made me feel safe to detox and dive into my mental health. The specialized programs focus on trauma recovery, dual diagnosis treatment, and relapse prevention—crucial elements for woman veterans who have faced significant challenges.
The clinical team integrates evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) alongside holistic therapies, offering a well-rounded healing experience. For women veterans, addiction often stems from trauma from childhood, domestic abuse, combat stress, and/or military sexual trauma. Here, I wasn’t just another patient; I was seen, heard, and supported in ways I never imagined possible. The treatment was holistic and personalized. Daily therapy sessions helped me unearth the deep-rooted pain fueling my addiction. The focus on mental health, trauma recovery, and
physical well-being allowed me to rebuild myself from the ground up. I wasn’t just learning to live without substances, I was learning to thrive.
Beyond therapy, Miracles Asia prioritizes overall well-being through a wellness and lifestyle program incorporating nutrition, fitness, mindfulness, and aftercare support to sustain long-term recovery. Fortunately, a benefit of the program is providing exclusive access to the world-class Thanyapura Sports & Health Resort. This premier facility offers state-of-the-art fitness centers, Olympic-standard pools, and specialized wellness programs. I enjoyed unrestricted access for two hours, three times each week, allowing me to personalize my fitness routines, spend time in the steam room, hot tub, or cold plunge for relief to my physical and chronic illnesses. I tried my first fresh coconut beverage; it is not to be missed! Each week we also get massages, haircuts, and food shopping in a local grocery store. On Sundays we went on excursions from serene boat trips that highlight the island's stunning coastline to invigorating jungle walks that allow you to reconnect with nature. The thoughtfully curated excursions complemented my treatment and supported my ongoing recovery.
A New Beginning
Recovery isn’t just about putting down the drink or the drug—it’s about rediscovering who you are. At Miracles Asia, I found the tools to do just that. I walked in broken and walked out whole. If you’re a woman veteran struggling with addiction, know that there is hope. There is help. And sometimes, it’s waiting for you in the most unexpected places—like a small, serene center in Phuket, Thailand.
In a Nutshell
Miracles Asia in Phuket, Thailand, offers a world-class recovery experience tailored to those seeking a holistic and personalized approach to healing. With luxurious accommodations, expert-led detox and rehabilitation, trauma-informed therapies like CBT and DBT, and access to the renowned Thanyapura Sports & Health Resort, this center provides the perfect environment for deep recovery. Women veterans, who often struggle with service-related trauma, PTSD, or the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, would benefit from the specialized care and supportive community at Miracles Asia.
The individualized treatment plans, one-on-one therapy, and wellness programs create a space where healing is not only possible but sustainable. With exceptional facilities, compassionate staff, and a focus on long-term success, Miracles Asia is highly recommended for women veterans looking to reclaim their lives from addiction.
Call to Action
If you’re a woman veteran struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone—and healing is possible. Miracles Asia offers a compassionate, world-class recovery experience designed to help you reclaim your life. Whether you’re ready to take the first step or just need someone to talk to, we encourage you to reach out. Share your story, ask questions, and connect with a community that understands.
Visit Miracles Asia to learn more about their programs or contact their team directly for your personalized confidential consultation. Your journey to healing starts today, don’t wait to take back control of your future.
This article was written by one of our U.S. veteran patients at Miracles Asia and is unsigned to preserve their anonymity.
